Renowned Nigerian author Chimamanda Adichie has expressed her reluctance to return to Nigeria, a country she once felt deeply connected to, following the tragic death of her 21-month-old son, Nkanu. In a recent interview with The New York Times, Adichie shared how the loss has profoundly altered her emotional ties to her homeland.

Adichie's son passed away in December 2025 after a medical emergency at Euracare in Nigeria. The circumstances surrounding his death have sparked an ongoing coroner’s inquest, with allegations of medical negligence surfacing regarding the treatment he received. This heartbreaking experience has led Adichie to reassess her feelings towards Nigeria, a place she previously described as integral to her identity and literary career.

"I do not want to go back to Nigeria," Adichie stated during the interview, highlighting the painful shift in her perspective. She elaborated that the country had once given her everything necessary to become a successful writer, but the recent tragedy has overshadowed those fond memories.

The author recalled a distressing moment when she was informed by a doctor that her son had been administered an excessive amount of propofol during an MRI examination. This revelation has added to her grief and sense of betrayal regarding the healthcare system in Nigeria.

Before Nkanu's untimely death, Adichie had been celebrated not only for her literary contributions but also for her cultural significance in Nigeria. In 2023, she was honored as the first woman to receive a chieftaincy title in her hometown of Abba, Anambra State, where she was conferred the title of "Odeluwa," meaning "she who writes for the world." This accolade underscored her influence and connection to her roots.

Despite her achievements and previous pride in her Nigerian identity, Adichie's current sentiments reflect a deep sorrow and disillusionment. The loss of her son has not only impacted her personal life but has also reshaped her relationship with the nation she once cherished. As the coroner’s inquest continues, the author’s reflections serve as a poignant reminder of the profound impact of personal tragedy on one’s sense of belonging and identity.